Roland announce raft of new products

Roland has today announced the new TD-17 series, the latest addition to their much-loved V-Drums lineup. Combining flagship-level sound with newly developed pads, Roland state that the TD- 17KVX, TD-17KV, and TD-17K-L kits deliver “…an experience that’s authentically close to playing acoustic drums, accurately mirroring the physical movement, stick coordination, and hand/foot control that every drummer needs.” They also include integrated access to an array of motivational coaching functions, plus built-in Bluetooth for playing along with songs and video lesson content streamed wirelessly from a smartphone.

At the heart of each kit is the new TD-17 sound module, which utilises Roland’s ‘Prismatic Sound Modeling’ inherited from Roland’s top-of-the-line TD-50. Sounds faithfully reproduce the character and tone of acoustic drums with lightning-fast response time, wide dynamic range, and natural tonal changes that vary depending on where and how hard the pads are played.

The TD-17KVX and TD-17KV kits come with the new PDX-12 snare pad, which features a dual mesh head and large 12-inch playing surface that supports the development of stick control and proper playing techniques. The head tension can be adjusted for satisfying natural rebound, while the height of the snare hoop enables the player to hit open rim shots with a natural stick angle.

The TD-17KVX also includes the new VH-10 V-Hi-Hat, which mounts on an acoustic hi-hat stand and replicates the natural feel and swinging motion of a real hi-hat cymbal. Offering advanced triggering with continuous open/close detection and bow/edge sounds, the VH-10 allows users to execute traditional playing techniques to perfection.

All three kits in the TD-17 series include the new KD-10 kick pad, which combines rock-solid feel with a noise-reducing design that offers quiet operation while playing at home. The KD-10 can be used with any standard kick pedal, and supports dual pedals as well.

Roland has also launched two further new additions to their range: the KD-220 and KD-180 Bass Drums, which feature full-size wood shells with Roland’s advanced trigger electronics built in allowing drummers to bring the commanding stage presence and familiar feel of an acoustic kick to any V- Drums kit or hybrid setup. The KD-220 is also included in the new flagship TD-50KVX V-Drums kit, while the KD-180 is included in the new mid-level TD-25KVX V-Drums kit.

The 22-inch KD-220 features a high-quality maple shell, while the 18-inch KD-180 features a high-quality birch shell. Both models come with custom chrome hardware, and offer compatibility with double-kick pedals. Roland’s innovative air-damper mechanics work alongside the acoustic shell to “move air” and provide resistance as the beater hits the head, delivering stable and accurate triggering with real acoustic feel.